Since its founding in 1981, the United Airlines MileagePlus program has rewarded frequent fliers with the opportunity to earn seat upgrades, free tickets and other benefits by flying on United or other program partners. United MileagePlus is part of the Star Alliance, meaning you can earn and spend miles on all member airlines. As of publication, member airlines include Air Canada, Air China, Lufthansa and Air New Zealand. MileagePlus also has many non-airline partners.

Getting Started with MileagePlus

Enroll in MileagePlus by completing a form that requires you to supply your name, gender, address, phone number, birth date and email address. You must select either an e-mail address and pin number or username and password to access MileagePlus online. Enroll electronically on the United Airlines website or obtain a paper form at United ticket counters or on United flights.

Earning Your Miles

Accumulate miles on United or other program participants by supplying your MileagePlus number when you purchase services. The MileagePlus program includes more than just airline travel. Many hotel, car rental, retail and financial partners offer MileagePlus miles, including Nordstrom, Home Depot and DirectTV. You also earn miles by using a MileagePlus credit card.

Using Your Hard-Earned Miles

Redeem your miles online or by calling the MileagePlus service center. Miles aren't just for air travel. You can spend them on car rentals, hotels, shopping, entertainment, dining or music downloads. United also lets you donate miles to charities such as the American Red Cross, American Cancer Society and The Hospital for Sick Children.

References

About the Author

Carol Poster began writing professionally in 1974. Her articles have appeared in "Outdoor Woman," "Paddler," "Ski Magazine," "Women's Sports & Fitness," "Dance News," "Show Business," "The Athenian," "PC Resource" and "Utah Holiday," among other publications. Poster holds an M.F.A. in creative writing from Eastern Washington University, as well as a Ph.D. in English from the University of Missouri.